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Fan shrimp, also known as Atyopsis moluccensis, are a species native to the freshwater streams and rivers of West Africa and South America.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the unique characteristics of fan shrimp— their feeding habits, compatibility with other tank mates, ideal tank conditions, and the fun they bring to an aquarium. Whether you’re considering adding them to your tank or simply curious, read on to discover everything you need to know about fan shrimp!
Unique Feeding Habits
What sets fan shrimp apart from other shrimp species is their method of feeding. They possess long claspers that catch food particles carried by water currents. To cater to their dietary needs, we feed our fan shrimp high-quality foods like Glasgarten’s Bacter AE, and finely ground pellet powders such as NorthFin Community & Kelp Wafers.
Compatibility and Community Tanks
Fan shrimp are non-aggressive, making them ideal for community tanks. They coexist peacefully with other invertebrates and non-aggressive fish, provided there’s adequate cover for them to hide in after molting. We recommend pairing them with nano fish such as danios, rasboras, and tetras.
These shrimp can grow up to six inches long and display colors ranging from red and brown to green, white, and blue. Interestingly, their hues often shift with the seasons, especially during breeding.
Ideal Tank Conditions
Fan shrimp thrive with a moderate water current that aids their filter-feeding. In our setup, we use pool filter sand as a substrate and a Matten Filter to ensure steady flow. Adding driftwood and Indian almond leaves gives them places to rest and hide.
Tank Parameters
- pH: 6.6 – 7.9
- GH: 6 – 16
- KH: 1 – 6
- TDS: 130 – 300
- Temp: 70 – 84°F
If you’re looking to add fan shrimp to your tank, remember they’re peaceful filter-feeders that need a gentle current, fine sand substrate, and plenty of hiding spots for molting. Keep water parameters stable and pair them with small, non-aggressive tank mates for a harmonious, engaging aquarium.
